Jane Anna Skovholt, 76, died July 14, 2025.

Born on Valentine’s Day, 1949, she grew up in St. Anthony Park, where she attended Murray High School. At Murray she was the editor of the school newspaper, played in the high school band and started her athletic career. Jane participated in every sport that was available to her at a time when equality and access in sports were very limited for women — before Title IX.

At the University of Minnesota, she earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees and lettered in basketball, eventually becoming a proud member of the M Club. She was a fierce competitor and played softball, volleyball, broomball, flag football, basketball, and curling throughout her life.

Jane put her heart into everything she did — whether it was playing or championing women’s sports; teaching for 35 years, 28 of those at Maxfield Elementary in St. Paul; cheering for Minnesota sports teams; or being a treasured aunt who poured love and care into each niece and nephew.

Jane adored being a physical education teacher and impacted the lives of thousands of children. It was common to hear her boasting about “her kids” with care and pride in her voice.

Jane retired from teaching in 2006 and spent her time doing more of the other things she loved: gardening; spending time at her cabin up north; caring for her dog, River; cheering on her great-nieces and -nephews; and being with family and friends.

Jane is survived by her spouse, Anne Beers; brothers Glen Skovholt (Anna) and Tom Skovholt (Lisa Yost); and brother-in-law George Beers (Ann). She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Elvera Skovholt.

A service was held at St. Anthony Park Lutheran Church. Memorials can be made to the English Springer Rescue America, Midwest Region.